Champaign, IL (WAND) – Classes at Parkland College are underway, and students made their way back to campus this week.
Parkland has more to offer this year for students hoping to transfer to a four-year university. The college has partnered with the University of Illinois Springfield as part of a new transfer program.
“It’s for students who are interested in transferring after attending Parkland,” said Parkland’s Dean of Enrollment, Kristin Smigielski. “Outside of having academic support in terms of academic advising, they’ll also receive additional benefits.”
The University of Illinois System’s Transfer Drive program provides support for income-eligible students transferring to its three universities from select Illinois community colleges. Those three universities include UIS, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and UIC.
Smigielski said this program can bring students multiple benefits.
“What sets us apart is the personalized attention students will receive, performance-based funding based on how they’re progressing through the program and additional benefits like career development, assessing where they are not only academically but career-wise as well,” Smigielski said.
Students enrolled in the program plan to transfer to UIS with at least one but no more than two years remaining at Parkland.
“Applications are open for current Parkland students,” Smigielski said. “They can apply by Oct. 2 if they want to be part of the first cohort this fall. Otherwise, applications open again in February for the next round, so I’d encourage students to talk to their academic advisor.”
Parkland leaders are confident their students can succeed at a four-year university, and Smigielski said she is excited for what this school year holds for students.
“It’s just a completely different environment; it’s lively,” Smigielski said. “We’re always excited to welcome our students back into the classroom and see them walking around campus. We’re here to support them.”
The Transfer Drive program will remain in effect through June 30, 2029.
To learn more about the program and how to apply, visit here.
